Topic: Crystal ball... Czech?

[Anik R]

Hello,

I got this 'crystal ball' today and am absolutely fascinated with it...  It's 7cm tall and weighs 690g.  The top is irridized (forgive me if that's not the proper term for the 'burned' or 'oily' effect  ) and the body is the clearest glass I have ever seen.  It's a shame my photos don't do it justice.  

It also has a wonderful magnifying property, as you can see in the last picture.

It was sold to me as Czech though I haven't been able to find any confirmation.  There is very little wear to the base, so I wouldn't be surprised if it's new (the seller was convinced it was 1920s/30s  :usd:).  I'd appreciate some help... Thank you for looking.

[Anik R]

cough, cough... 

[Ivo]

Known makers of crystal balls were Val St. lambert and Baccarat - the latter should be obvious from the quality. Not sure if there are others in this field...

[Anik R]

Ivo, thank you for taking the time to respond.  I've been searching various catalogues (Czech, French, Belgian, and others) and the Internet for similar balls, but haven't come up with anything significant.  I do think there is quality to it, judging by the weight, the clarity and the finish, but certain things are not always as obvious to me as they seem to others.  :usd:   It really is a shame that its prettiness doesn't come through in the photos.  Ah well... my search continues. 

[Cathy B]

It's gorgeous, Anik! You could use it as a prop to make the most amazing photographs